Hazel Court Assistant Headteacher (The Southfield Trust)

Hours of work: 32.5
Working pattern: Full-time

Closing date: Midday Friday 15 May 2026

For more information and to apply for the above post please contact:

The Southfield Trust
Lindfield Road
Hampden Park
Eastbourne
East Sussex
BN22 0BQ

Phone:
Email:
Website:

Please note we do not accept CVs.

This post is covered by the Childcare Disqualification Regulations 2018.

The school will need to ensure that they are not knowingly employing a person who is disqualified under the 2018 Regulations in connection with relevant childcare provision. Accordingly the successful candidate will be required to demonstrate to the school by completing a self-declaration form as part of the pre-employment checks process that they have not been disqualified under the 2018 Regulations.

If the preferred candidate is found to be disqualified under the 2018 Regulations the offer of employment will be subject to the application by the preferred candidate to Ofsted for a waiver and the receipt of a waiver from Ofsted.

Hazel Court School is a special school in Eastbourne for young people aged 11 to 19 with moderate severe and complex learning difficulties including autism. It is part of The Southfield Trust and operates across a secondary site (1116) and a further education department (1619). Hazel Court School provides a safe nurturing and highly personalised learning environment where pupils can develop academically socially and emotionally. The focus is on helping students make meaningful progress build independence improve communication skills and prepare for adulthood at a pace suited to their individual needs.

The Southfield Trust is a forward-thinking and compassionate Trust dedicated to providing high-quality education and support for children with special needs. We operate a network of specialised schools in Eastbourne East Sussex which provide tailored educational experiences to ensure every child reaches their full potential.

We are seeking to strengthen leadership across our outstanding multi academy trust we are looking to appoint a full time permanent Assistant Headteacher for Hazel Court from September 2026 who will make a significant contribution to the schools leadership team.

They will support the planning and delivery of teaching and learning working alongside the Headteacher who retains strategic responsibility. This opportunity will enable the successful candidate to work with a skilled leadership and management team. It also provides the chance to make a difference more broadly via the work of the Trust improving the learning experiences and life chances for young people.

Why Join Us

Be part of a skilled supportive and dedicated leadership team committed to making a difference in the lives of children with special educational needs.

Improve the learning experiences and life chances of young people.

Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

The chance to shape the future of a growing and innovative educational trust.

Salary - Leadership Scale. L9 - L14

Permanent Full time contract.

The successful applicant will:

Have a proven and successful track record of leading a key stage particularly PMLD

Have an in-depth understanding of special education including complex medical needs

Have energy and commitment and be capable of achieving great outcomes for pupils / students

Bring excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate others

Be determined to achieve the very best for everyone involved with our inclusive and forward-thinking Trust and be committed to working in partnership with a range of stakeholders

Have experience of managing a school site if the Headteacher is off site.

How to Apply:

For more information about the Trust please visit our website:

Visits to a Trust school are encouraged - please email your contact details to the HR team at if you would like to arrange a visit or for more information.

Candidates should be prepared to work at any one of our school sites.

Please complete a Teaching-staff application form for this post which can be accessed via the Vacancies tab on our website along with the Job Description and Person Specification.

The closing date for this position is midday on Friday 15th May 2026.

Interview date the week commencing 18th May 2026.

If you do not receive a response to your application by Friday 22nd May 2026 you can assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Unfortunately we are unable to offer overseas sponsorship

We look forward to receiving your application. We do not accept CVs. Your application will be accepted if sent by email to:

The Southfield Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Employment will be subject to pre-employment checks including satisfactory DBS Enhanced clearance and references. This post is covered by the Childcare Disqualification Regulations 2018.